College Essay Topics You Might Want to Avoid Writing About


If you ever need help coming up with an idea of what to write for your essay, just refer to the list of 53 examples of college essay topics above to get your brain juices flowing.




Take a look at Khan Academy’s site and what college admissions officers say about the essay and the type of essays that stand out to them.

If you are still not sure, then start by answering the prompt and brainstorming 2 to 3 stories in your life that you can use to share more about yourself.

Many different kinds of college application essay topics can get you into a great college. But this doesn’t make it any easier to choose the best topic for you.

Looking for more college admissions essay examples about yourself? .

An earlier version of this piece was developed in conjunction with my thought-partner and co-consultant, Jackie Stowers, for the , where we are implementing a college essay intensive writing coaching program, as well as working directly with their students. The Cooperman Scholars are supported through all aspects of college access and success, and are a shining example of how attending college really can change lives and communities.

This essay topic is a great opportunity for humor. Choose a unique topic that others might not think of, and whatever you choose, make sure you know a lot about it!

When risky topics do work: it’s all about how the writer handles it, and what the essay is about UNDERNEATH the story you are telling.

IvyWise counselors Rachel and Zach share their top tips on how to brainstorm and write college application essays, and what admissions officers are looking for when they read them on the Just Admit It! college admissions podcast, giving listeners expert insight from former admissions officers.


Here are the for the second of their college essay topics:

At this stage of the writing process, don’t worry too much about vocabulary or grammar and just focus on getting out all your ideas so that they form the general shape of an essay. It’s OK if you’re a little over the essay's word limitas you edit, you’ll most likely make some cuts to irrelevant and ineffective parts anyway.

21 College Essay Topics & Ideas That Worked

The Common Application opens this weekend on August 1, and for many rising seniors this is the perfect opportunity to get a head start on their college applications before the start of the school year. However, before students dive into their college application essays, they need to know what’s true, and what’s false, about these common application essay myths.

Top 40 College Essay Ideas and Topics | Empowerly

Once you decide what you'd like to write, follow the tips below to craft a standout essay. You can also find more advice about college essays in our article .

What are college essay topics that are over used/not original?

Hey everyone, I'm starting to brainstorm for my college essays, but I'm kinda stuck. What are some great essay topic examples? I want to stand out but also stay true to myself. Any suggestions would be super helpful!

College Essay Topics to Avoid or Rethink

One of the best ways to write a successful college essay for your college application is by learning from real college essay examples that worked. I've compiled a few of my favorite essay examples here that cover a variety of college essay topics.

college essay ideas : r/ApplyingToCollege - Reddit

No matter what type of prompt you receive, it's your job to stick to it. The admissions team has a lot of essays to read, so you'll have a better chance of standing out if you develop a cohesive response that stays on topic.